Henry VIII: September 1517

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 2, 1515-1518. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1864.

This free content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.

'Henry VIII: September 1517', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 2, 1515-1518, (London, 1864) pp. 1156-1172. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol2/pp1156-1172 [accessed 24 April 2024]

Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image

September 1517

Sept.
Er. Ep. App. 246.
3661. COLET to ERASMUS.
Is not pleased that Erasmus mentions him in letters to others, but never writes to him. Is angry also that he sent Reuchlin's Cabalistica to Fisher and not to himself. The copy came into his hands first, and he read it before it was sent to Rochester. Can pass no judgment upon the work, as it is beyond him; "quamquam inter legendum nonnunquam visa fuerint mihi majora miracula verborum quam rerum." Of reading books there is no end, but for this life there is nothing like living holy and purely; "meo judicio nulla via assequemur quam ardenti amore et imitatione Jesu." London, 1517.
1 Sept. 3662. For SIR THOMAS SPINELLY.
Annuity of 100l. Westm., 1 Sept.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 9.
1 Sept.
P. S.
3663. For TH. PALMER.
To be bailiff of the lordship of Barton on Humber, Linc., vice Roger Salesbury, deceased. Windsor, 17 Aug. 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 1 Sept.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 14.
2 Sept.
P. S.
3664. For JOHN SYMPSON, native of Scotland.
Denization. Greenwich, 16 Dec. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 2 Sept.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 9.
3 Sept.
Er. Ep. App. 174.
3665. MORE to ERASMUS.
Sends his Utopia ("Nusquamam nostram nusquam bene scriptam ad te mitto.") Has delivered his letters to the Venetian ambassador, who would have been glad of a copy of the New Testament. They paid each other, at meeting, long compliments, but More likes him. Has heard nothing from the Archbishop. Colet has not spoken to him about Erasmus: but he has spoken with Wolsey, who was profuse in his praises. His (agent ?) John will deliver to Ægidius at Michaelmas the money Erasmus deposited with More. If Erasmus prints More's Epigrams a second time, suggests whether it would not be better to omit those relating to Brixius. London, 3 Sept. 1517.
7 Sept.
Galba, B. V. 316. B. M.
3666. TUNSTAL and SPINELLY to HENRY VIII.
After the King had returned to the castle two leagues off, visited Chievres to know about the King's voyage. He showed him a letter from France containing news of Albany, who had been despatched to Scotland, but was recalled, and will not go there till after Christmas. The King has arranged for the government of Scotland, and sent home the estates not very well satisfied. Queen Margaret attempts to make parties there; also Francis will send an ambassador to England for the surrender of Tournay and a new treaty, and has offered 400,000 crowns. The news is unpalatable to Chievres, who states that before Charles made a league with France he preferred the King's amity above all others, and he trusted England would now make no league with France which should be prejudicial to his master's interest. Tunstal replied that England would be sure to keep its faith to the uttermost, and do nothing prejudicial to the King of Castile; and it was probably only a rumor of the French. Chievres said that Spain was pacified, and that the French King had given out he might have had Sicily if he would, but would not break his faith with his son-in-law. Francis had urged the King to go to Spain by land, offering hostages and the keys of the cities through which he should pass. But the King refused his offers, and, as the wind changed the same day, he resolved to depart.
Have been with Chievres this morning to know the time of the King's departure. Chievres said that "if the Frenchmen will be busy against him, your grace shall see him speak of another sort than he hath yet done, becau[se] hitherto he has spoken always as man kneeling on his knees, and wh[en] he shall be there he shall more stand up and speak;" that if the wind be not favorable, the King is determined to land in England. In his absence the King will establish a council, consisting of the knights of the Toyson and others, to sit at the court a certain hour before dinner, and an hour after, and had left with them a tachett, i.e. a signet, kept in a box, which is not to be opened except before them all; the more voices to carry it. The King has recommended his Council to the Emperor, to England and to France, that France might not seem neglected. He intends to make a truce with Gueldres, and pay a sum of money for surrender of the towns taken in Friesland. The Emperor has sent 3,000 lanceknights to the Pope, who is in great trouble, and must be assisted. At taking leave he begged his recommendations to Henry. This day he was shriven once again, for he was "housilyd at the last opposition," when he trusted to have fair weather. This evening he goes to Flushing to take sail tomorrow. Myddleborowe, the v[ij.] Sept. Signed.
P.S.—Monsr. Montigny will be left in trust, with whom the King wishes Henry to communicate.
Pp. 7, mutilated. Add. Endd.: 7th Sept.
7 Sept.
Galba, B. V. 320. B. M.
3667. SPINELLY to [WOLSEY].
The Master of the Rolls has written to the King of the Catholico's departure. Fra Nicolas, by letters of the 23rd, has heard from Rome that the Duke of Urbino had entered the Florentine dominions. All the captains of Spain have left the said Duke, as their foot refused to obey the Catholico's command and go into Sicily. The bull for the disme in England is despatched. Cardinal Hadrian is still at Venice. Encloses the letter from Fra Nicolas. Middleburgh, 7 Sept. 1517.
Hol., pp. 2, mutilated.
8 Sept.
Er. Ep. App. 178.
3668. ERASMUS to FISHER BP. OF ROCHESTER.
Colet makes grievous complaints because he had sent Reuchlin's works to Fisher and not to him, but says he read the book before Fisher had it. Is sorry for this delay. Had allowed More to show it to Colet only, and not leave it. Is glad Colet is studying Greek. Has written to Latimer, who will not be moved from his studies. Sends the second book of Theodore and the Apologia contra Fabrum. Will be glad to have Reuchlin's works back. Hears from Cologne that his cause is in good condition. Erasmus fears it never will be. Antwerp, 8 Sept. 1517.
8 Sept.
Er. Ep. App. 179.
3669. ERASMUS to MORE.
Arrangements about money. Peter Ægidius is still ill. Is sorry More is detained at Calais. Antwerp, 8 Sept. 1517.
Sept.
Er. Ep. App. 228.
3670. ERASMUS to PETER VANNES.
Is extremely grieved at the death of Ammonius. Would gladly do something to preserve his memory. Begs he will collect his whole correspondence with Ammonius, and send it to Erasmus by a trusty messenger; and also all writings between Ammonius and the Pope in the affairs of Erasmus, to be destroyed or sent to him at Louvain. Louvain, 1517.
8 Sept.
Er. Ep. App. 180.
3671. ERASMUS to SIXTINUS.
Begs that Peter Vannes may collect and send him all the correspondence which passed between Erasmus and Ammonius, or give it Sixitinus to send. Has not seen his brother. The climate agrees with Erasmus, and he could make his fortune if he would embark in politics: but he sees troubles ahead, and does not deem it safe. Antwerp, 8 Sept. 1517.
8 Sept.
Galba, B. V. 321. B. M.
3672. TUNSTAL to WOLSEY.
The King of Castile embarked this day. He was resolved to go notwithstanding all opposition. The weather is the fairest that could be known. Many men's stuff was discharged. Refers him to Spinelly's letters. In regard to the citadel of Tournay, has heard wise men say that if the town were now rendered to the French they would oppress Flanders and Brabant: therefore Chievres would not like to see it in their hands. If the King, therefore, is minded to give up Tournay, thinks it would be advisable to offer it in the first instance to Charles on his arrival in Spain, in exchange for some other place. Various arguments for this proposition. Thinks the King will have in time to come a substantial friend in the King of Castile, and more trustworthy than the French. Intends to repair to Calais to await the King's pleasure. Desires to return, as he has not been at his own house for two years and a half. Myddleburgh, 8 Sept.
Hol., pp. 4, mutilated. Add.: To the most reverend father in God and his most singular good Lord Cardinal of York, Chancellor and [Leg]ate of England.
9 Sept.
Er. Ep. III. 31.
3673. ERASMUS to WOLSEY.
Commends Wolsey's civility to suitors: "Mira morum tuorum facilitas, omnibus exposita obviaque, sic prorsus invidiam omnem excludit, ut homines non minus ament naturæ tuæ bonitatem quam fortunæ magnitudinem suspiciunt." Sends the King a copy of his book De Recta Principatus Administratione, in which he makes Philip of Castile the type of a good prince; upon whose death Henry VIII., then Prince, addressed letters of condolence to Erasmus. Fears the King had no leisure to peruse the book he sent him on the last occasion in consequence of the wars; now hears that his majesty has returned to his early studies; "ac subinde cum libris colloqui, non quibuslibet, sed iis potissimum qui pietatem, qui regiam sapientiam doceant." Is busily engaged with the New Testament. This winter, which he proposes to spend at Louvain, will be devoted to the work. The King Catholic has sailed from this with a favorable wind. Hopes he will fully succeed in Spain. Is greatly apprehensive of some disturbances in the Low Countries. The death of Ammonius has occasioned him great grief. Jerome Busleyden is also dead, who was formerly ambassador in England. These are the firstfruits of the Spanish plague (Orcus Hispanicus), to which so much has been sacrificed already. Antwerp, 5 id. Sept. 1517.
11 Sept.
R.O.
3674. SAMPSON to WOLSEY.
Received his letter on the 5th, by Mr. Pawne's son, commanding him to go to England. Wolsey's jurisdiction for Tournay diocese is not yet well established. No man dares occupy, from fear of being vexed by the opposite party. Tournay, 11 Sept.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: My Lord Cardinal of York.
12 Sept.
Giust. Desp. II. 129.
3675. SEB. GIUSTINIAN to the DOGE.
A French ambassador has arrived from the Emperor, a man of no account, apparently only to borrow money. He has not yet had an audience, either of the King, who keeps aloof at Windsor to avoid the sickness, or of Wolsey, who has gone to Walsingham. London, 12 Sept. 1517.
12 Sept.
Calig. D. VI. 326. B. M.
3676. The BASTARD D'EMERY to WOLSEY.
Has in his company, 8 [or 9] gentlemen who have been in the service of the King since he was in it, and whom he had recommended for employment in the garrison of Tournay. And as the roll of names has been sent to the King, of all those whom the Deputy wishes to include in the garrison, begs that himself and the gentlemen alluded to may be taken into the King's service. Tournay, 12 Sept. 1517. Signed.
Fr., p. 1, mutilated. Add.: A reverend pere en Dieu Mons. le Cardinal, Grant Chancellier d'Engletere.
13 Sept.
R.O.
3677. TOURNAY.
Indenture of the sums received by William Pawne of Sir Richard Jernegham, Deputy of Tournay, for payment of labourers in the citadel, from 29 Jan. 8 Hen. VIII. to 13 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII. in sums of 2,000l. circa; two items deficient. Total of rent, 13,940l.
13 Sept.
R.O.
3678. TOURNAY.
"The number of artificers, dykers and laborers working in the King's works at his city of Tournay," from Monday 17 Aug. to Sunday 13 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII. Total, 1,958.
Large paper, p. 1. Endd.
13 Sept.
R.O.
3679. TOURNAY.
"The check money of the month beginning Monday" 17 Aug., and ending Sunday 13 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII. Total 3l. 12d. Names of persons paid are given. Mr. Hart's company is mentioned.
Pp. 2.
14 Sept.
Er. Ep. III. 2.
3680. TUNSTAL to ERASMUS.
The King of Spain had scarely set sail when Tunstal and his retinue returned from Zealand so poisoned with the foul odors of the country that by strict fast of several days he was barely able to keep off an attack of fever. Before he left three of his servants had been struck down; and had he not sent them away, upon the advice of his physician, none of them would have recovered. He is not alone in this respect; many of the court were seized, and it is a mercy the King escaped. The waters there are so black and bitter they are as bad as the Styx. If one stays at home in the town, the smoke from the chimnies, for they use turf instead of wood, oppresses the nostrils. These turfs are cut from salt bogs, and dried in the sun, and the exhalation from them penetrates heart, breast, nose and brains. "Audivi ab indigenis vestrates Hollaudicas ex mitiore erutas solo thus olere præ illis." If to relieve the tediousness of the town you take a walk, the least shower of rain turns the roads into mud; as to any farm or meadow the deep ditches prevent all access; and to get at the sea banks, where only a man can walk with pleasure, you must pass 600 ditches where they steep flax, and the stench is intolerable. The whole country is below the level of the sea two paces at high tide; and but for the dams, it would break in upon the inhabitants in the midst of their feasting and pledgings. They say there is no other way of escaping these inconveniences except by draining hogsheads; a remedy, to my mind, worse than the disease. For you know how soon on such occasions I eat the leek (herbam porrigo, i.e. I knock up). Will return to England as soon as he is able.
Has received his Apology and answer to Faber. Approves of the style in which it is written. Tunstal once met him in Italy, and thought him a modest and learned man. Thinks he wished to show off his knowledge of Greek, and took his measure of other men by the meridian of Paris. Had he known how much more Greek is studied and understood in Italy, Germany and Spain, he would not have been in such a hurry to print. Compliments Erasmus on his New Testament, and thinks he wastes time in noticing these attacks. Is glad to find he is on good terms with the theologians of Louvain. Is delighted to hear that Strabo, Pindar and Pausanas will shortly appear from the Aldine press. Bruges, 18 kal. Oct.
Has just lost one of his attendants, and is doubtful of the rest.
Sept.
Er. Ep. III. 3.
3681. ERASMUS to TUNSTAL.
Zealand is greatly obliged to him for his graphic description-Begs him to be careful of himself. Thinks he has hardly done justice to Faber, who is a superior scholar, and with whom Erasmus never had any quarrel before. John Aten, Chancellor of the University of Louvain, is his very good friend. Louvain, 1517.
14 Sept.
Vit. B. III. 174. B. M.
3682. Extracts from letters of the BP. OF WORCESTER to VANNES.
The truth is not written from Rome, as of the [coming] of the Spaniards to Verona, the message of the Pope for forming a treaty, and the marriage of the new Duke of Urbino with a relative of [the French King]. The Spaniards have not stirred, and another marriage alliance is yet in debate. The Pope is much displeased at the new alliance between the King Catholic and the King of France;—thinks the former has been sold by Chievres, and that he has been guilty of insincerity;—is informed that the articles of the treaty have been submitted to the King and Wolsey; that the Emperor witholds his consent; that Andreas de Burgo wrote to his brother to pay no regard to the rumor of an alliance between the King Catholic and the King of France. One of the articles allows the King Catholic to assist the Emperor against the Venetians. He is angry that the Swiss, by persuasion of the Bastard of Savoy, have joined the French, notwithstanding all his efforts; and is persuaded the French only wait to crush him. He has received a request from the King Catholic that Chievres may be created a cardinal on his going into Spain, and also a secret message from Tricarico that Wolsey was arranging a new treaty with France. Hears from Lyons that Jerome Bonvix, who had been dismissed from Rome, has now a good pension in England. Is surprised that he or his scamp of a brother Lorenzo should be countenanced. The Pope is still anxious for the reformation of the calendar. Has no means at present of sending Wolsey's caps (pileos.)
Lat., in the hand of Vannes; pp. 4, mutilated. Dated in the margin in a later hand.
14 Sept.
P. S.
3683. For JOHN PATE, groom of the Wardrobe of Beds.
Annuity of 10l. out of the lordship of Denbigh, North Wales. Windsor, 19 Aug. 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 14 Sept.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 12.
15 Sept.
Er. Ep. App. 79.
3684. LUPSET to ERASMUS.
Writes briefly, as he is much occupied and uncertain how he stands in the affection of Erasmus. Begs forgiveness for any offence he may have committed: "atque tibi ipse persuadeas, quod est verissimum, me in illius libelli proditione a culpa liberandum." It is not true that he has defamed Erasmus behind his back. Wrote to More to effect a reconciliation, but, as he has heard nothing, is afraid More has forgotten, or Erasmus is still angry. Paris, e Collegio Lombardorum, postrid. Exalt. S. Crucis, 1516,—where he will stay a month, intending to cross to England.
Has completed Linacre's work, De Sanitate tuenda. Intends getting a new edition of More's Utopia printed. Wishes to know if Erasmus got those papers Lupset left by his orders with More.
15 Sept.
Vit. B. XIX. 275. B. M.
3685. [CARD. OF SION] to [WOLSEY].
Though [he wrote] from Augsburg on the 17th of July letters in cipher (in figuris contextas), by [command] of the Emperor, on the business of the Imperial crown (Ro. 1[mperii]), and how the Emperor remains firmly determined when the King Catholic has gone to Spain ... who, or rather his councillors, "idem ... rium sibi et Catholico imperio provenire peteb ... adeo ut non auderet rem eandem cum regia majestate ... inferius concludere et convenire, statim autem ... eodem Rege Catholico in Hispaniis existente reven[tiones] et oblata, promissaque exsolvere; scripsi etiam quid [egis]set cum electoribus in Frankfordia et quid ego q ... egi et reperii." Was going to have sent his own cousin (consobrinus) by commission of the Emperor, but he fell sick at Tr[ent]. Forwarded those letters, therefore, at his own cost, to Francis de Ta[xis], who was to send them to England. Details his disputes with the Swiss and Super Saxo about the robberies and offences committed in "patr ... Sedunensi," and the goods taken from him.
Is compelled to defend and recover the rights of his church with the Swiss, instead of seeking justice at the court of Rome. For the above reasons he has not been able to write so frequently to Wolsey. Wolsey has either never received his letters, or forgotten to answer them: perhaps is angry with him. Had it ever been suggested that he and the Bp. of Veroli, through the Cardinal Medici, had sided with the French, Wolsey would have good cause to be angry.
They are not like Visconti, who has not only befouled everything with his treasons, but, under pretence of requiring aid for Verona, stole 30,000 fl. A servant of his, who was with him in the expedition, has taken about 2,000. If the writer were of the French party he would not be so scampish and needy as this. Has had nothing from the King Catholic, or from the Emperor; has been ejected by the Pope; and if he would only join the French, would be adored by the Gallicising Swiss. The French offered, through a certain person, to give him Supersaxo and his sons, but he did not accept it. He is like Satan, and all he says is false. Triulcius, Visconti and Gambaro have obtained his recal from the [Pope], and have substituted for him Antonio Pucci. Veroli is unpaid and open to French practices. A league with the French is in treaty by the French party among the Swiss, and is concluded in many cantons. Veroli was got rid of because he saw through the designs of the French too clearly. After the diet which will be held tomorrow, will send his cousin to England, who will explain all. It would be seasonable if Henry and the King Catholic would send to the Swiss for intelligence, but the messenger should [not] come without money, at least 20,000 crs. Genoa is in tumult, owing to the pillage. Milan is in the same state, from the murder of a chief man. The Pope has a strong force, 300 lances from the French alone. If 10,000 [Swiss] could be got with two months' pay, "statim et facile habere" ... and Cuma, in which Sion has some influence, would be recovered. But the matter will not admit of delay, for the winter approaches. If this opportunity be lost, another may not occur. Zurich, 15 Sept.
Contemporary copy, pp. 8.
16 Sept.
Er. Ep. App. 183.
3686. ERASMUS to MORE.
Sends him his picture by Peter Coclites (the One-eyed), who is going to Calais. More needs give him no more than 10 or 12 groschen (grossi). Wishes he could come. Whilst nursing Petrus Ægidius, Erasmus caught so bad a cough he is almost dead with it. Dorpius is friendly, but sparing of his praise. "Commissasunt mihi quædam titulo Imperatoris de rebus non levibus: sed quidvis fecero priusquam hujusmodi negotiis irretiar; et utinam tu esses expeditus!" Louvain, 16 Sept. 1517.
16 Sept.
Er. Ep. App. 184.
3687. ERASMUS to SIXTINUS.
This is a wonderfully barren country. Johannes Phrysius, who has so many accomplishments (artes), can find nothing to do, and is resolved to try his luck in England. Has seen his brother. Ægidius is still ill, and Erasmus has a troublesome cough. Louvain, 16 Sept. 1517.
Another letter to the same effect, probably addressed to Fisher, occurs in App. 186.
16 Sept.
Vit. B. III. 176. B. M.
3688. The BP. OF WORCESTER to WOLSEY.
In behalf of the bearer, Silvester Darius, subcollector, going to England to execute his office. Rome, 16 Sept. 1517. Signed.
Lat., pp. 2, mutilated. Add. at ƒ. 179 b.
17 Sept.
R.O.
3689. LEO X. to HENRY VIII.
Has appointed Silvester Darius as his nuncio in England, to manage the correspondence between himself and the King. Begs the King's favor for him in this behalf and as subcollector of the papal chamber. Rome, 17 Sept. 1517, 5 pont.
Vellum. Add.
17 Sept.
Galba, B. V. 325. B. M.
3690. TUNSTAL to [HENRY VIII.]
After the King's departure visited the Lady Margaret, who said, that as she was left in trust, the King should always find her a good friend. This does not agree with Chievres' account given in their letters of the 8th. Tunstal pretended to believe it. She said she would write to England, but he has received no letters. Either she is abused, or wishes to abuse him. Thinks the chief trust is in the Lord Montigny. On his journey, at Bruges came a tall man to him, named Thomas Stanley, bastard of Sir William Stanley, chamberlain to Henry VII., who said he had been kept in the Tower of London fourteen years after his father's death, and, on obtaining his liberty from Henry VIII., was compelled to leave England, as no one would take him into service; fell in with Richard De la Pole, and became his porter; had twenty crowns a year, but was never paid; says that Sir George Nevill has been with De la Pole since Christmas last, and that, speaking to him of his poverty, Nevill said that Pole remarked "that such Englishmen as had served him had always been true to him, and biden with him as long as he had kept them bare, and when they had any money in their purses they would not long tarry." Being disheartened, he went to De la Pole, requesting his wages and dismissal. He promised to pay him: but two days after, as he was in bed, Pole came into the room with his servants, and said, "Thou false traitor! thou has been long a spy in my company; thou shalt, before thou depart, show who sent thee hither. And with that, all they laid hands on him, and took a small cord with pricks, and bound his great toes together, and strained the cord as hard as they could," bidding him confess. They strained the cord so hard that it brake; but as they were preparing another, he spied the door open, and ran to a monastery of friars, demanding asylum. Pole, being afraid of the slander, sent to him Deryke Rede, his chief steward, begging him to return, and after Easter next his wages should be paid: to which he agreed. Pole, when he paid his servants their wages, and gave them liveries of grey and blue, paid Stanley 20 sous, and bid him be gone. Says he has been serving in Holland under Nassau, and been badly paid. Desires a safeconduct to England. He will inform against De la Pole, and show that what Latimer said was not true. He says that Pole has a pension from France of 4,000 crowns. Had no Englishmen with him except his chaplain Sir William, who can only get his wages a crown at a time. Tunstal bade him write to the King, and encloses the paper. If the King allow him to come, desires word may be sent to Jerningham, Deputy of Tournay. He says that two spies of Pole are living at Mechlin, one called Hans Nagle, the other he did not know; but he meant, says Tunstal, Alamyre the singer. Desires he may return. Calais, 17 Sept. Signed.
Pp. 6, mutilated.
17 Sept.
S. B.
3691. For GEO. SMYTH.
Lease, for 21 years, of the manor of Aydon, Northt., part of the possessions of Margaret late Countess of Richmond and Derby, at an annual rent of 12l., and 13s. 4d. increase. Westm., 17 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 6.
19 Sept.
R.O.
3692. SPINELLY to HENRY VIII.
The King Catholic arrived this morning on the coast of Biscay, but has not yet decided where to land, as the sickness is raging. A ship was burnt between Dovor and Wynselse, containing the King's horses and apparel, commanded by a Burgundian named Mont Richard. No help could be given. On the third day reached Usent with a strong wind from the S.E., when they deliberated about going to Plymouth. Since then they have been becalmed. At sea at the Sell, 19 Sept. 1517. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.
19 Sept.
Vit. B. XX. 71. B. M.
3693. [PACE] to WOLSEY.
"The Popis [holiness hath revoked?] my lord the Bushoppe Verulani [in like manner as] I affore thys tyme have wre[tyn to your grace], which thing hath been done ... who as longe as I am here doithe fe[ar great] tempeste, and for this respect wol[de that] amongiste the Swiss I should have ... considering and knowing the King's grace's [influence] to be great there, and his treasure more e[ste]midde." The Pope has se[nt] another to the Swiss, Antonius Puccius, a prothonotary, nephew to the Cardinal Sanctorum Quatuor, who is in great favor, having been singularly faithful to his holiness in prosperity and adversity. This prothonotary is said to be honest and well learned. He has sent his secretary to Pace, "a grete lernidde man and an olde frende off myne," with a brie[f of] credence from the Pope to the effect that "b[etween] his holiness and the King's grace is l[oving and] perfect amitie, and to shew unto (fn. 1) * *[hath] also sent unto me ... letter out of Italy concerning [his holin]ess's affairs of war," here inclosed. The Pope's troubles [(if the] letter tell truth) are likely to have a good end by the falseness of the Spaniards, who, now that they have spoiled the whole duchy of Urbino, seeing the Duke is likely to have no more aid, and fearing the 5,000 Swiss now in Italy to help the Pope, have decided to give up the duchy to the Pope, and convey the Duke to Mantua, on receiving two month's pay, as agreed, from his holiness. "As touching the treaty to be had with the Swiss, for entering the newe and grete lige, I can nother hear thereof from the Pope's holiness [n]or ony odre prince, excepte that your grace [hath] signified unto me of the King's highness's ... which, because it is good the residue *** whensoever this *** is come into Swycelande is determined [to send a] great and pompous ambassade ... to impeche all that we shal[l] ... [perceiv]ynge right well that his money ... there, than any other princes, wise ... letters or orators eloquence or subtle ..." Since the new league [hath] been concluded to the King's great cost, and your grace's singular wisdom and intolerable labors, no man has had any mind to this thing that should be concluded with the Swiss." Others will hinder it, because they know the King inclines to it. Meanwhile "Richard Pace shall be burned up here in the scuphis, do nodre to the King's hig[h]ness nodre your grace acceptable service and consume much more than he hath, whic[h] thing is accomplished already, for the gre[at] beggary and subtle pylynge that is here usy[d] and inevitable. [Constance, 19 Sept.*]
Pp. 3, mutilated. Add.: Rmo, &c., dño. Tho., &c., Carli Ebor., &c.
20 Sept.
S. B.
3694. For SIR WM. THOMAS.
Lease, for 21 years, of the site of the manor of Staunton Lacye, Salop, with a pasture called Staunton Frith, late in the tenure of John Wallaston, at an annual rent of 7l. 10s., and 20s. increase. 20 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 13.
23 Sept.
Otho, C. IX. 35b.* B. M.
3695. FABRICIUS [DE CARETO] to HENRY VIII.
The Sultan of the Turks, now at Cairo with 33,000 men, is prevented from going to Syria by insurrections among the Arabe. His fleet this day set forth, laden with valuables. He has sent an ambassador to make peace with the Rhodians. They suspect his offers. Requests that all their fraternity may be sent to them in this emergency. Rhodes, 23 Sept. 1517. Signed.
Lat., p. 1, mutilated. Add.
25 Sept.
P. S.
3696. For JOHN CAYGNOCLE, yeoman of the Pastry.
Licence to export 200 tuns of beer and 200 weys of cheese. Easthampstead, 15 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 25 Sept.
Fr. 9 Hen. VIII. m. 1.
26 Sept.
Giust. Desp. II. 130.
3697. SEB. GIUSTINIAN to the COUNCIL OF TEN.
Has left London to avoid the plague. Has heard of another conspiracy of the mob to murder the strangers and sack their houses. Thinks it was suggested by the absence of the King, Cardinal and other lords, who have gone in the country. The city is prepared: 3,000 householders are under arms. Three of the ringleaders have been arrested. Desires to return home. The present session will last all October, after which there will be no reason for him to stay. Westminster, 26 Sept. 1517.
26 Sept.
P. S.
3698. For WM. ALMER.
To be serjeant at arms, with 12d. a day, vice Rob. Wasshington, deceased. Windsor, 6 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 26 Sept.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 8.
26 Sept.
P. S.
3699. For JOHN DAVID, yeoman of the crown.
To have the fee of the crown, being 6d. a day, vice Wm. Almer, promoted. Windsor, 9 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 26 Sept.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 13.
27 Sept.
R.O.
3700. MARGARET OF SAVOY to HENRY VIII.
In behalf of Jacques Pauye, nephew of the late Mich. Pauye, confessor of the King Catholic, who in his uncle's lifetime had been provided by exchange with a prebend in Tournay, and would have gone personally to Wolsey to receive collation but for the prevailing sickness. Brussels, 27 Sept. 1517. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.
28 Sept.
Calig. D. VII. 25. B. M.
3701. STEPHEN PONCHER BP. OF PARIS and ... to [WOLSEY].
Had not sent him a courier, as they heard he had gone on a pilgrimage to the far-famed chapel of St. Mary [Walsingham]. Since he has returned to London, they have despatched a post of their arrival at Boulogne twelve days since, accelerated by the command of Francis, who has followed Wolsey's advice in pushing the treaty for the business of Tournay. They are prepared with full powers, and only wait the arrival of advices from the Cardinal. They have heard from their master of the cessation of hostilities between the Pope and Francesco Maria Duke of Urbino. The withdrawal of the Spaniards rather aggravated the war than otherwise. Bononiæ, 28 Sept. Signed; the second signature destroyed.
Lat., p. 1.
28 Sept.
Calig. D. VII. 153. B. M.
3702. NEWS FROM FRANCE.
A letter of intelligence.
(Some lines lost at the beginning). " ... Plexis pres Anssenys."
The King (of France) is sending to the King of Spain to take in marriage (pour prendre) Madame Renée, but to no purpose, for the Spaniards will not have the alliance. If the King were dead, and Boysiz and the Chancellor, it would be no loss. God knows the convulsion that is stirred about the death of this Princess [Louise, daughter of Louis XII.]; and with reason, because it will break up the alliance, and the Spaniards will never leave Naples. The Emperor sends for the electors, expressing a wish to resign the empire in favor of one of his children (ses enfans) in Flanders. There is no law to provide for such a case: the Pope might as well resign his tiara to the Cardinals. Francis plies them with bribes. "Il y a embassadeurs vers ledict Empereur qui est subtil et prevoit beaucoup plus que nont faict les Angloys, qui se hastent trop, de quoy peult estre en graterout leurs testes: ce qui est differé n'est point perdu." The Romans never had any alliance with King Pyrrhus because he was changeable. Sends his correspondent a little book printed by the King,—the remonstrances of the Trois Estatz made to Charles VIII., "ensemble les dolleances ... tez dommagez et destruyement, qúe peult avoir le royaulme [de] France à cause de la cassation et abolition de la Pragmati[que San]cion et du Concordat du Pappe et du Roy, par lequ[el on c]ognoist tout lestat de France." ... One of the masters of requests is here on the part of the King to investigate the matter, and has brought with him a speech made in parliament by the advocate Bouchart. The King has ordered them to be [brought up] before him for sentence; "maiz ta' d' ceste fille es ... qui sera pour moderer la fureur dudict seigneur, car ... que on a apaisé les Angloys." He has not one that wishes him well, for he has sent in all directions to levy new exactions, even on the Church itself; and the nobility must pay ten crowns for every acre, and there is still a tenth to pay. There is here in Britanny 600 men of arms, who devour the poor Bretons, making those pay the gabelle who never paid before. The Normans refused to levy the new [tenths ?]. The King does well to seek the alliance of foreigners, as he cannot trust his own people. 28 Sept.
Fr., pp. 3, mutilated.
28 Sept.
Calig. E. I. 123. B. M.
3703. NEWS FROM FRANCE.
" ... z et argent maz la moytie ... quil soit a moy." The King is leaving Morlaix for Ancenys, at the entrance of Britanny. The Bretons are in a state of insurrection at the imposts, and threaten to kill the gensdarmes. The avocats of Paris who are at Orleans, and those of the University, are summoned touching the Pragmatic Sanction. Bouchart has done excellently. It is expected the Pope and King will be at war. There is a conspiracy among the avocats. They would not have spoken so loudly against the Pope had they not been backed up by some secret influence. Search is made for a fat Cordelier, who has declared in his sermon that the King is worse than Nero. They insist on those who farm their own lands paying the "taille aux gentilzhommez." 28 Sept.
P. S.—The plague is very bad. The King lays imposts on these people, and has deprived the gentlemen of their privileges.
P. 1, Fr., mutilated. Address burnt off.
28 Sept.
P. S.
3704. For JOHN LAVELL, merchant of Rouen.
Licence to import 300 tuns of Gascon wine. Eltham, 10 Aug. 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 28 Sept.
Fr., 9 Hen. VIII. m. 3.
29 Sept.
Vesp. C. I. III. B. M.
3705. SPINELLY to HENRY VIII.
Wrote last to his highness on the 19th inst., "being at Sell," in sight of land, which proved to be the coast of Hasturyes (Asturias) and Galicya, though the pilots thought they were off Biscay. Found the country "all barren, unpurveyed of horses and other necessaries for the King (Charles) and his company." Nevertheless his grace landed at 4 o'clock, p. m., within a mile of Villa Viciosa, accompanied by the Great Master and Don Diego, and a certain appointed number, among whom was the writer. The whole company proceeded to the town on foot. The King and the Lady Eleanor, his sister, were received with great joy and reverence by Don Francisque de Beamon, the governor, who had gone thither on account of the sickness that prevailed in divers places. The town had not more than forty houses. "The next day the Prior of St. John's, the Bp. of Corduba and some other, with the King's levy, came thither; and because the wind turned to the N.N.W., the Lord Beures, admiral, was commanded for the salvacion of the mean (men ?), ships and goods, to depart immediately, and go to St. Ander, in Biscay. Wherefore, for so hasty departing, the Lord Chyevers and many other principals had no leisure to have their beds to land, and for the first night a great part of them slepe upon straw and banks. Also the time did not suffer that all the horses brought over might be discharged, and having the King and the Lord Chyevers losted theirs in the ship that was burnt, the Governor of Bresse leved his heynde (left his behind ?). The Count of Porseyn, the Lord Sampy, Walaym and divers other, sent theirs by land. Your highness may consider how the company was ready to set forward." For 200 persons, lords, gentlemen and gentlewomen, there were not forty horses: nor could any be procured, because (1) in that mountainous country "the principals goeth a foot;" and (2) the chief places were infected with the sickness, "where was defended upon pain of death the haunting on other side. The lack of victuals did compel the King to depart, and so the third day after his landing he took his journey toward St. Ander, and rode four days upon a hobby, the which I gave unto his grace for fault of better. The most part of his company went afoot, and of the residue the greater number rode upon pack horses; and as for the gentlewomen, many of them in carrettes, with oxen. Nevertheless, considering the surety and sweetness of the land, every man suffered it joyously in patience. The King arrived into this town of St. Ursent (St. Vincent), sixty English miles from Villa Viciosa. Some knights and noblemen of the country, which begin to amend a little, have brought horses and mules unto his grace; and many been come from St. Ander, of those passed with the ships, in such manner that from henceforth the company shall be better apparelled than it hath been heretofore."
The country is very mountainous, and abounds in "chestones" (chestnuts), on which most of the inhabitants live, instead of corn. They have also a kind of oats to make bread of for the nobles and gentlemen, "thoo that the worst of them reckon to be the best born; and marvellously they be ground upon the noblesse of blood, seeing they have been those that have conquered Castile out of the hands of the Infidels, having, by reason of such opinion, proudness enough in comparison of their goods and riches; their arrayments been small jackets of coarse light cloths, with bare legs and feet; and commonly they wear long beards and hair, being woll made persons, and wonderly light; and as far as I may conject upon good information, they may be compared unto the Irishmen." The country abounds with wild boars, bears, wolves and leopards. The towns by the seaside depend entirely on the fishing off the coast of Ireland. The whole realm of Castile is divided between "two partialities depending of the Velaskes and Maurykes, whereof the Constable of Castile and the Duke of Nagger been the chief." Towards the crown, however, "there is no variance amongst them."
The chief of every town and parish met the King upon his journey, with as many men as they could make, offering their services against the French and the Infidels. Many of them that had been "in the wars of Naples and Navarre showed very good countenances of men of war; and because they use for the most part cross bows and darts, with great paves," the King has ordered divers captains in the Hasturyes to be ready at eight days' warning, to bring him 10,000 men; and the latter have promised to accustom their men to morrispikes and handguns, to be provided by the King. News is expected daily from the Cardinal of Toledo (Ximenes). As yet the whole realm is in good peace. The King has commanded all the lords to stay at home till sent for, all his "stuff and apparel" being at St. Ander, and the country being too barren to support any large assembly. Yesterday intelligence of the Catholic King's arrival was sent to the King of Portugal.
Encloses copies of "the instructions and ordinance made in Zealand for the King's navigation," and of a letter in Latin "written by a learned man" upon the subject; also four pieces of silver called "ryallez" and "halfe ryallez," as specimens of the new coinage struck at Antwerp, of which the King has brought with him 40,000 ducats, which he began to issue in payment of his expences the day after his landing. "And so hereafter, I am informed, during the King's mother's life it shall be continued, and the crown of gold accordingly." On the third day after the King's landing Lady Chievres was appointed to be "lady mistress, with the Lady Eleanor, the King's sister," and to fill the office which she formerly held with Doña Anna de Heaumont, who was called Dame d'honneur in France; "who for the recompence of their long service, shall have during her life 1,500 ducats, well assigned."
The comendador mayor of Calatraba, governor of Don Fernando, and the Bishop of Astorga, his schoolmaster, have been removed from office by the Cardinal, with the King's consent, having, it is said, attempted to make Don Fernando King of Arragon, against reason and the will of the Catholic King deceased. It is also said they had some intelligence with the Frenchmen in the matter. "The Cardinal gave the charge of their will about Don Fernando unto the Marquis of Aguler, who I suppose to be of your highness' acquaintance, and, as I am informed, as soon as the King met with his brother, Don Dego shall have such room. The admiral of Spain hath sent twelve fair mulets and two mules unto the Lord Chyevers, the which is a fair present, esteemed with the apparel 2,000 ducats or above.
"The Lord Chievres is in as good favor as ever he was, and like to continue, for his wisdom, and for the great variances that been amongst the lords of Spain.
"Your highness shall also know that till this day many com plaints been come to the King of the murders, robberies and many extortions that since the decease of the King of Arragon have been made in the jurisdiction of the Duke de Linfantasico, wherefore, before the King's arrival, no man durst appeal: to the which the King and his Council been totally determined to administer good and brief justice, as his grandfather was accustomed to do; certifying your highness that all the poor people by reason thereof give him great lowvanges.
"Having I in the ship opportunity and leisure to talk with the Lord Roux, Great Master, I demanded and inquired as far as I could, who, amongst other things, showed me that the Lady Margaret the day before the King's departing out of Zealand declared the secret of all the matters whereabout the Emperor, her father, went at his last being into Flanders.
"In Sicyle hath been new murders committed against the King's Council. Wherefore, as the Lord Cheyvres showed me, from hence they have commanded unto the Viceroy of Naples, that with all diligence he should send thither the 5,000 footmen, Spaniards, that were with the said Duke of Urbin, against the Pope, and 400 spears, with 600 light horses, for to punish the rebels." St. Vincent, 29 Sept. 1517. Signed.
Partly in cipher, deciphered by Tuke; in Spinelly's own hand from the place where the cipher commences; pp. 6.
Add. (ƒ. 110 b): T[o the Kin]g's most noble grace. Endd.: Sir Thomas Spynell, XXIX. Septembris.
29 Sept.
R. MS. 13 B. II. 292. B. M. Ep. Reg. Sc. I. 299.
3706. JAMES V. to ANNE LADY DE VERE.
Desires redress for John Glen, Wm. Clerk, and Wm. Adamson of Edinburgh who in June 1514 freighted a ship named The Gabriel, Henry Rugy master, which sailed from Leith for Antwerp, but was seized in the port of Flushing by some of the inhabitants, and sold to the English, then at war with Scotland. Wrote last year upon the subject, but has obtained no answer. The merchants, consequently, are afraid to go to Vere. Edinburgh, 29 Sept. 1517. Signed: "Taillefer, pro Paniter."
Copy, Lat.
29 Sept.
R. MS. 13 B. II. 293. B. M.
3707. JAMES V. and COUNCIL to [TOWN OF ANTWERP].
To the same effect as the preceding. Request that the goods may be restored to the owners, and justice done, that thus the friendship now existing may endure. Edinburgh, penult. Sept. anno Salutis xvii. supra.
Per Regem, Regentes, Cancellarium et Consiliarios regni. Signed: Taillefer, pro Painter.
Copy, Lat.
29 Sept. 3708. For TH. WORSELEY, priest.'
Presentation to the church of Hotham, York dioc. Westm., 29 Sept.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 5.
30 Sept. S. B. 3709. For SIR EDW. BELKNAP.
To be chief butler of England, with 50 marks a year out of the customs and prizes of wines, &c. for providing deputies, and an annuity of 100 marks out of the same: on surrender of patent, 25 July 7 Hen. VIII., granting the same to Sir John Daunce. Del. Westm., 30 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 17.
30 Sept.
S. B.
3710. For SIR JOHN DAUNCE, ROB. BLAGGE and BARTH.
WESTBY, _ Barons of the Exchequer.
To be general surveyors of Crown lands. Del. Westm., 30 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII.
30 Sept.
S.B.
3711. For SIR JOHN DAUNCE.
Annuity of 200l. out of the customs of London, Exeter or Dertmouth. Del. Westm., 30 Sept. 9 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 16.
Sept.
Calig. B. I. 244. B. M. Green's Princesses, IV. 264.
3712. QUEEN MARGARET to DACRE.
The Laird of "Vhetherborne" has requested her to desire him to send the Prior of Coldingham and George Humbe, "for now is the time best for them," and make them promise to take her part. Either she will have all the rule, or there will be some trouble. It were great shame that any other should have the control. Knows she will have many friends, and trusts she may rely on England. Desires to have his advice what to do.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: To my Lord Dakers. Endd.; Letters and answers sent from the Queen of Scots.
Calig. B. I. 243.
B. M.
3713. ii. [DACRE] to QUEEN MARGARET.
"Copy of a letter to the Queen's grace of Scotland."
Has received her letter. Cannot understand why she writes, at the request of the Laird of Wedderburne, to desire him to send home the Prior of Coldingham and George Home, and to make them promise to take her part. Knows nothing of them, nor where they are. Her grace is aware peace is concluded till Saint Andrew's Day between Henry, the King her son and the Duke, and negotiations going on for further peace, at the request of the French King. Thinks the slaughter of Delabastye is of a "sodendy." Angus should not "lose himself in the taking of a light way with the said Laird of Wedderburne," unless some men of substance would take his part, and have with him and the Queen the keeping of the King; in which case England will support her, and make peace with her son. Whatever Angus does he should do by the advice of his friends in Scotland. Desires to know her pleasure by a servant of his own sent with the bearer. Bids her beware whom she trusts with her letters. The bearer is a true man. "At my manor of Askerton, the x ... (fn. 2) day of September."
Copy, p. 1.
Calig. E. II. (188.)
B. M.
3714. LA GUICHE to [WOLSEY].
Has understood the satisfaction of the King of England at the report made by him to the King his master. Has no doubt of Wolsey's promise, given to him at his departure, that England would prefer the alliance of France to all others. The honor of it will redound to Wolsey. As the negotiation must be carried on wisely and secretly, the Bp. of Durham and the Chamberlain have been named on the part of England, the Bp. of Paris and himself on that of France. Signed.
Fr., mutilated, pp. 2.
[Calig. E. I. II.] I. 177.
B. M.
3715. A PAPER OF NEWS.
1. The King thinks the season too advanced to attack the Turks. 2. It will be sufficient to put Naples, Sicily, and similar places in a state of defence. 3. 20,000 foot and 5,000 horse will be necessary for this purpose. 4. The Pope, the Kings of France and Spain, the Venetians and Florentines to furnish expences. 5. If the Turk make a descent upon Christendom, and the above forces are not sufficient, the said Princes to come to the rescue with all their powers. 6. The Emperor, the Kings of Hungary, Bohemia and Poland to resist the Turks on the frontiers of Hungary. 7. The King Catholic will order 8,000 infantry, now at Oran, to march to Naples. 8. The said King shall furnish 2,000 men at arms and 12,000 foot for Naples, &c. 9. The King of France 2,000 horse, 8,000 foot. 10. The Pope 1,000 horse, with those of France in Ancona.
Fr., pp. 2, mutilated.

Footnotes

  • 1. Date supplied from marginal note written before the fire.
  • 2. Burnt away.